During the holiday season, our homes are filled with sparkle, ribbon, and festive cheer. Unfortunately, many of the decorations we love can also pose serious risks to curious pets, especially those who explore the world with their mouths.
It’s Not Just Food Pets Swallow
While we expect pets to beg for holiday leftovers, it’s often non-food items that pose the greatest danger. Things like:
- Tinsel and garland
- Ribbon and bows
- Wrapping paper or string
- Ornaments or ornament hooks
- Small decorations from gifts or displays
These items may seem harmless but can lead to serious medical emergencies if swallowed.
What Is a Linear Foreign Body?
Among the most dangerous holiday items are linear foreign bodies—long, string-like materials such as ribbon, tinsel, or yarn. Unlike a solid object that might lodge in one place, linear items often anchor in one part of the gut (like under the tongue or in the stomach) while the rest stretches through the intestines.
As the intestines try to push the material forward, they bunch up or “accordion” around it. This effect is called plication, and it can cause the ribbon or string to saw through the intestinal wall—leading to perforation, infection, and even death if not treated quickly.
Signs of a Possible Foreign Body
Watch for these symptoms, especially in the days following holiday events or decorating:
- Vomiting (intermittent or continuous)
- Decreased appetite or refusal to eat
- Diarrhea or straining to defecate
- Lethargy or listlessness
- Signs of abdominal pain (whining, hiding, tensed belly)
These symptoms can worsen quickly, so early intervention is critical.
Diagnosing the Problem
If a foreign body is suspected, your veterinarian will recommend:
- X-rays or ultrasound to check for signs like plication or intestinal blockage
- Bloodwork to assess hydration, inflammation, and organ function
- A review of the pet’s history, especially if any holiday decorations have gone missing
Some items like ribbon or tinsel may not show up clearly on imaging. Diagnosis often depends on subtle signs, including the telltale folding pattern of the intestines.
Surgical Treatment Is Often Required
Unfortunately, linear foreign bodies cannot pass on their own. In almost all cases, emergency surgery is needed to remove the item and assess the damage. In severe cases, sections of the intestines may need to be removed if the tissue is damaged or perforated.
Prompt surgery increases the chances of full recovery and reduces the risk of complications like infection or sepsis.
Holiday Safety Tips
To keep your pet safe this season:
- Avoid using tinsel or ribbon on your tree or gifts
- Keep gift wrap supplies and decorations out of reach
- Monitor pets closely during family gatherings or unwrapping sessions
- Discard wrapping materials right after presents are opened
- Supervise play with new toys, especially those with string or fabric parts